It was the bow and Symon's apparently earnest delight at his agreement that caught Asra by surprise, a flush sweeping his cheeks before he cleared his throat in an effort to return his focus to the task before them.

"I can't say I've fought much alongside anyone," Asra admitted. "Usually I travel alone. If it comes to a fight, there's no one else to rely on."

He eyed the sword as it caught the light, his lips quirking in a smile despite another, twisted howl rising from the forest, closer now.

"It'll be a change not to be right at the front of things. I'll try to keep clear of your blade."